Bull-festival in Tamil Nadu: HC permits Jallikattu on Pongal

Chennai, Jan 12: The Madras High Court on Thursday, Jan 12 permitted Tamil Nadu especially Madurai to celebrate one of its famous festivals - Pongal with Jallikattu - bull fight.

Earlier Environment Minister, Jairam Ramesh banned Jallikattu following a petition filed by the veteran actress Hema Malini.

Requesting to ban Jallikattu, Malini wrote to Jairam saying, "People expect our officials to uphold meaningful animal welfare standards and to protect citizen. I urge you to do so by taking steps towards ending jallikattu without delay."

'Jallikattu' (taming of the bull) dates back to several centuries has been played in Madurai mostly. Jallikattu, otherwise called 'Manju Virattu', takes place in villages throughout the state every January as part of the Pongal festivities. The event dates back to as far as 2,000 years and is a much awaited bravery sport.

OneIndia News